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Friday, June 28, 2013

In the words of Little Saturday’s Laura Mascelle, “finding
the right massage therapist is like finding the right hairdresser, the right
yoga teacher… they just get you! You can relax and trust them every time
and more importantly feel fantastic when you leave.” Well I found Laura at
Ponsonby’s Urban Ashram in Brown Street - where I visit the ‘right’ yoga
teacher for me, the wonderful Nikki Ralston - and absolutely loved her style,
her grace and her poise. And to say she gives a killer massage would be an
understatement!

I decided to have a chat to her about what she does and what
motivates her, and if you’re in the market for a great massage therapist then
read on - Laura is one of the special ones indeed.

How long have you been working as a massage therapist?

I trained at Elite International as a beauty and massage
therapist nearly 13 years ago – WOW that’s crazy where has 13 years gone?!

Has it always been your first love?

It’s been a love in disguise for me.
I didn't study beauty therapy because I wanted to be a massage
therapist, I studied because I loved skincare and was fascinated with how the
body worked. When I started working I was always given great feedback
from my massage clients and the love has grown from there.

How would you describe your style of massage?

The standard routine is not good enough for me, most
massages I've had just seem to go through the paces/movements, making
it seem cold, impersonal and disappointing. I really listen to my clients
concerns and take note of their energy as soon as I meet them. Overall I
want them to feel deeply relaxed, calm and re-energised when they leave. That
means spending every minute of the massage in tune with my client and putting
the small touches together to create a warm, quiet environment, and giving the
massage I would want to receive!

What kind of people come to you for massage?

I think there are two types of people who I see – irregular
clients who are about to explode from stress and have booked a massage to save
themselves, and regular clients who know and feel the benefits of massage and
come regularly to maintain a healthy mind and body, I think we all want to be
the regular client.

You mentioned to me that you would like to own a shop one
day, what sort of shop?

Yes I am so excited and passionate about this. I created
Little Saturday about 4 months ago now, and at the moment I am massaging and
write a blog. My dream is Little Saturday will be a boutique studio/store
that will provide complete wellbeing workshops, massage, nutritionists and be
stocked with inspirational health and wellbeing books, skincare, healthy food
products – it will glow with what it represents; happiness, health, wellbeing and
the little things.

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Sometimes I feel like every woman
and her dog is flogging a new BB cream, but when the bigger brands hold off for
a while and then unleash a truly great one? Things get interesting!

The latest I’ve got my hot little
hands on is by the legendary beauty name Elizabeth Arden, who has recently
added Visible Difference Multi-Targeted BB Cream SPF 30 to its Visible
Difference line of skincare essentials.“ Marrying the brand’s 100 year skincare expertise with the natural
coverage of a sheer foundation, the formula instantly hydrates, brightens,
primes and protects skin for a flawless-looking complexion,” is what the press
info says, and it definitely does all that - and beautifully I may add.

Suitable for all skin types,
Visible Difference Multi-Targeted BB Cream SPF 30 is a multi-tasking and total
skin balancing solution that targets and treats users’ specific—oily,
combination, dry—skincare concerns for an even, glowy complexion.Formulated with hyaluronic acid and key
anti-aging ingredients, it comes in a lightweight buildable formula that -
unlike some brands - easily blends into skin. Skin-enhancing mineral pigments are
in there to help blur imperfections and diffuse fine lines (love that), whilst
an antioxidant-rich Vitamin C derivative is included to brighten. It also has SPF
30 UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection, which is essential and a major in my
book.

Shade 1 is ideal for very fair complexions
with pink undertones, Shade 2 for fair-to-medium complexions with golden beige
undertones and Shade 3 for deep complexions with golden undertones, and I’ve
found that Shade 2 is perfect for my skin right now but could easily be warmed
even more with bronzer come summer.

Fingers are the best application
tool in my book for this little wonder, but always remember to wash and dry
hands first to prevent bacteria transfer.Then apply a pearl-sized amount of product to the face for a sheer veil
of colour.For medium coverage, an
additional layer can be added on top, and if you tend to suffer from very dry
skin like me you can prep skin with a light moisturiser prior to BB application
for a smoother, more even application.Like any other tinted-moisturiser or foundation application, you can
seal it all in with a translucent or mineral powder, which I’ve been doing in
the evenings.

So there you have it - not “just
another BB” after all, and in store now.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Anyone that checks in here regularly will
know that I’m a huge fan of oils - body oils, hair oils and facials oils - and
love the fact that nine times out of ten, they are brilliant multitaskers and
can be used on the whole family.

Sweet almond oil was one of the first oils I
started using in a beauty sense many years ago, and it is still a big
favourite. Pressed from the nut kernels of the Sweet Almond tree, it is rich in
essential fatty acids and anti-oxidant rich vitamin E - meaning that it easily
penetrates deeply into the skin to protect the skin from drying, improving the
skin’s barrier function and supporting natural processes. It’s also one of the
less pricey oil options, and that’s why Weleda’s Almond Soothing Facial Oil -
at just $26.50 for 50ml - is my ‘steal’ of the week.

The perfect pick for allergy-prone, sensitive,
inflamed and dry skin, it absorbs super quickly and works in harmony with
sensitive skin to boost the skin’s natural protective function, whilst Blackthorn
Blossom is included in the mix to instantly aid and support the skin for long lasting
balance. Good stuff!

And now for the multitasking part: this
little wonder is suitable for daily use as an alternative to moisturiser in
cold weather, as an intensive skin treatment or as an eye make-up remover when
you apply a few drops to a moistened cotton pad. It can also be dotted on damp
skin and layered under a night cream for an extra surge of goodness and absorbs
quickly so is fine for use under makeup. If you’re in need of a little boost
now the weather is dropping then I highly recommend you pick a little bottle of
this sweet stuff up.

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Picked by Star Beauty Awards, Teen Vogue Beauty Awards, Cosmopolitan
UK and Glamour UK as the best mascara release of 2012, Benefit They’re Real!
Mascara is a formula I have instantly fallen head over heels in love with. A deep,
jet-black mascara that lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts, and separates lashes
for what the cheeky-but-clever company calls a “spectacular ‘out-to-here’ look,”
it seriously gives you lashes you never thought you had.

I was introduced to it at a meet and greet with Benefit
Australia’s Jessica Bok last week, where I received one of the best brow
shape and tints I’ve ever had and left with some wonderful new treats to play
with. Thus far, the incredible They’re Real! stands out as my fave, mainly
because I love a big, fat lash look and this does that with nary a flick of the
wrist. It has a specially designed brush that features staggered bristles that
grab close to the root, boosting length and volume beyond belief. Then, the
custom-domed tip uses precision bristles to lift, define, and curl even your
tiniest lashes. The end result is a glossy, jet-black look that is long-wearing
and super comfy to wear, and after just a few days’ wear I can confidently say
that it won’t smudge, clump, or dry out.

To get the most from this little beauty, position the wand
horizontally and wiggle from side to side and base to tip to achieve maximum
volume, length, and lift. Then, hold it vertically and stroke upward to curl
and separate. Layer generously as desired!

This formula is multi award winning with good reason and
gets major thumbs up from me - and if you haven’t checked out New Zealand’s new
Benefit counter at Auckland’s Smith & Caughey’s Queen Street then I highly
suggest you do, ASAP!

I’ve lived my whole life with allergies, and
as long as I can remember have dreaded everything from pollen to cat hair
coming within a football field’s reach. It’s not just seasonal for me, so I’m
always on the lookout for an alternative to the usual antihistamines and nasal
sprays that I was dependant on for far too long.

The latest product that I’ve been using is GO
Healthy GO Allergy Support, which is a clever formula jam packed with allergen-busting
ingredients to help clear respiratory passages.Key natural ingredients like Horseradish, Garlic, Fenugreek
and Quercetin are in there at triple strength levels along with valuable extras
like Marshmallow root to help to soothe and clear mucus, Histidine (a natural
anti-histamine that supports the body’s response to allergens) and of course Vitamin
C, which supports normal histamine levels and the body’s response to allergens.
Another magical component of GO Healthy GO Allergy Support is the herb Eyebright,
which does exactly what is says – naturally soothes the tired and troubled eyes
that often come knocking with your average allergy.

This formula is also suitable for vegetarians
and vegans as Allergy Support comes in New Zealand made GO Healthy VegeCapsules,
which are made from non GMO vegetable cellulose and 100% free from animal
products such as gelatine.

Monday, June 24, 2013

CND seriously revolutionised
the nail salon industry when they brought Shellac into the world a couple of
years ago, a brand name that’s now synonymous with seriously hot shades and a
picture perfect result that lasts. When I started getting gel/polish hybrid
manicures and pedicures I quickly became hooked, and now CND are poised to do
it again with a new product called VINYLUX.

VINYLUX is what they are calling a “Weekly Nail Polish” that
uses no base coat and a topcoat that gets more durable with natural light
exposure. Did you get that last bit? As in, technology that gives long lasting,
high gloss wear with no UV/LED exposure and it removes like regular nail polish
so they whole shebang can take place at home?

I was sold straight away, but wanted to know - how the hell
does it work? VINYLUX Weekly Polish comes with a Weekly Top Coat, they
are a system that is uniquely designed to work together. Exposure to natural
light secures the patent-pending ProLight technology, creating an enduring,
long-lasting polish. ProLight creates a powerful network of cross-linked
polymer bonds that build resistance to chips and
enhance durability with exposure to natural light over time. Clever
stuff.

So unlike gel polishes, you can change it when you want to,
and unlike regular nail polish, not because you have to. It’s easy to use as
well, just apply two thin coats of VINYLUX Weekly Polish and then one coat
of VINYLUX Weekly Top Coat. Around eight and a half minutes later you are
totally good to go. This top coat then creates an outer shield that protects your
manicure from scratching, denting, chipping and dulling for up to a week of
wear (I’ve had longer), way longer on your toes.

According to the company VINYLUX is best removed with CND
Shellac Nourishing Remover or Acetone, and using quality cuticle oil like
SolarOil will enhance wearability because it improves the health of the nail
and keep everything looking tidy and sleek.

I’ve been using the shade Fedora (above) for a while now and
have to say that the results are seriously good. And after having gel/polish
hybrid products on my fingers and toes for well over a year now it is a joy to
be able to take a break from the salon visits - and the natural nail damage - and
have a play with colour all on my own.

VINYLUX is launching with 62 colours too, and I reckon one
will definitely not be enough!

Thursday, June 20, 2013

I am a huge fan of YSL’s beauty releases, which over the
past few years have been the perfect mix of classic Parisian chic and modern
day edge. Their ad campaigns are amongst the sharpest in the beauty business as
well, and I particularly love this shot of Cara Delevigne for the YSL Baby Doll
collection (above), which hits New Zealand on July 22.

The brand new YSL Baby Doll Mascara is being released along
with the Baby Doll Collection, and when some samples of the line up arrived on
my desk yesterday I immediately got excited - it is beautiful. Just beautiful.

The mascara - known as Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Baby
Doll - is available in three shades and has a rubber bristle wand, which is
definitely my preferred type. It is quite narrow but lengthens nicely and gives
great separation. It gives a bit of volume but not too much (there’s that
classic Parisian chic element creeping in) and from my wear so far there's no
clumping and no flaking throughout the day. It feels good on the lashes - not
dry or crunchy - and the next level gorgeousness of the packaging is an added
bonus! The experts say to apply it in small successive strokes without pausing
between applications, and so far so good.

Also in the small-but-perfectly-formed collection is a
liquid eyeliner called Eyeliner Moire, in four shades that can be worn alone or
even together. The Light Golden Brown is my favourite thus far, and is ideal
for day or can be amped up for night.

Last up, there is a limited edition nail polish in the
collection as well as a limited edition Rouge Pur
Couture Vernis à Lèvres, which is one of my most-used lip formulas and the
answer for women who want it all when it comes to lip glosses/lipsticks and lip
stains. Not exactly lipstick, not exactly gloss, and so much more than a simple
lip stain, it has a soft, hydrating feel with a light glossy finish and an
incredible wear time. It has none of the “drying out” factor common to so many
lip stains, and has a super natural look whilst combining all the elements of a
gloss, stain, and creamy lipstick into a single product. This hybrid has the
long wear of a stain, the creaminess of a lipstick, and the shiny finish of a
gloss, and is now available in the beautifully warm, deep pink Rose Baby Doll.
I’m in heaven!

Apparently the choice of Victoria’s Secret Angels and
brides-to-be alike, oxygen facials are high-performance cosmeceutical treatments
that carry active ingredients deep into your skin via oxygen molecules. They
promise softer, smoother skin that feels cleaner and fresher than ever, and are
about as non-invasive as it gets. This means that they are pretty much suitable
for all skins, which is rare for many effective beauty treatments out there
today. They are also the perfect treatment for skin that is sluggish, clogged
or prematurely aging, and one of the key facials - under the name Oxygenation Facial
- on the menu at Parnell’s Forme Spa. When I was offered the chance to try one
I was definitely keen - it might not give me Miranda’s bod but hey, I’ll take
her baby soft skin!

After I fill out a highly detailed pre-consultation form, my
therapist Mei at the beautiful Parnell branch of the popular spa chain takes me
through to a treatment room and we get started with a traditional double cleanse
and exfoliation with Bioelements products. I was familiar with the brand from
a launch years ago, and it is one of Forme’s brands of choice due to its low
level of irritation for most skins.

The machine however is the work of Australia’s
Intraceuticals, and an ampoule of their serum for sensitive skin is deemed the
best choice for my face before the main event begins. The sensation is cooling
and feels almost like suction - but isn’t - as a small nozzle works its way
over one side of my face and neck, pushing out the appropriate infusion. Hyperbaric
(above atmosphere pressure) oxygen adds a cooling, calming effect and generates
a pressure bubble to help saturate skin tissue with the aformentioned infusion,
containing hyaluronic acid and soothing extras. All up it takes about 45
minutes and when I look in the mirror my skin definitely looks clearer and
plumper, with fine lines definitely hiding for the next couple of days.

Repeat visits are recommended, with visible results said to
extend over time, but the oxygen facial also works as a one-off treatment for
special occasions (Madonna reportedly owns three machines and takes one on tour
to plump up pre-show). As with any treatment before a big event such as your
big day, a trial is a good idea, although this facial has a much lower risk of
breakouts than most as it’s all about giving as opposed to taking away.

An Oxygenation Facial at Forme Spa Parnell will set you back
$145.00 and you can find out more here.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

I’m a huge fan of Spring
FootSpa Queenstown after visiting there last year, and also a huge fan of
US-based spa brand Bliss whose products I lust after on a very regular basis.
Every time I visit the States I try and get along to a Bliss spa for a
treatment (the San Francisco location is my fave), and have always lamented the fact that they aren’t available in New
Zealand - until now.

In a wonderful
meeting of beauty minds, Spring FootSpa Queenstown are now offering new menu of
wedding packages, which is made up of some very special treatments courtesy of
Bliss. The Bliss brand prides itself on advances in skin and body treatments
that deliver real results, and Spring FootSpa is the first spa to bring Bliss
treatments to New Zealand, and also have a wide range of Bliss retail products
for sale.

The five decadent
new packages are custom designed for preparing brides-to-be, grooms-to-be,
bridesmaids and mothers of the bride for the big day. Spring FootSpa’s expert
wedding spa planners have put together the packages to ensure the whole bridal
party sparkles. They include Aisles Ahead, The Prenup
(for him or her), Perfectly Groomed, M.O.B. Mentality
and All Maid Up. And for your special day, the spa is also
offering 20% off the regular retail price of the treatment packages.

Spring FootSpa -
and East Day Spa - owner Ina Bajaj says that her favourite treatment is the
complexion-reviving Bliss Instant Radiance Oxygen Facial, which features a
resurfacing peel, oxygen wrap, extractions, massage, and finishes with Bliss’s
famous Triple Oxygen Cream face and eye mask. A series of six of these facials
is reportedly the perfect way to ensure smooth, glowing skin on your big day, and
it sounds like pure heaven to me - the woman most definitely knows her stuff!

The full line up
is:

Aisles Ahead - $456.00 ($570.00 value)

A series of six one hour Bliss
Instant Radiance Oxygen Facials, approximately one facial every month.
This complexion-reviving facial starts with a resurfacing peel, followed by an
oxygen wrap, the necessary extractions, facial massage and Bliss's famed face
freshening Triple Oxygen Cream, face and eye mask. It's like a breath of fresh
air for your face - literally.

The Prenup (for
her) - $244.00 ($305.00 value)

Signature Spring
Pod Massage - Either full body
or concentrated on a particularly achy area, they combine long flowing strokes,
rhythmic movements and yogic stretches for a marvelous muscle release.

Bliss Hot Almond
and Milk Pedicure - Milk
(or, specifically, lactic acid) does a pedi good in this hour-long
sole-spoiling treatment. Following an intensive dry-buffing, feet are softened
in steamed whole milk and mega-moisturising almond oil, then sublimely scrubbed
and taken to the pinnacle of ‘pedicure’ with punctilious preening polishing.

Shellac Manicure
with French Polish - Like
any quality polish application, the Shellac system features a base coat, colour
coat and top coat. Together with a UV Lamp, they comprise the breakthrough in
resilient colour that remains flawless for two weeks, dries instantly and
removes in 10 minutes.

Brazilian Wax
(under six weeks)

The Prenup (for
him) - $166.40 ($208.00 value)

Signature Spring
Pod Massage - Either full body
or concentrated on a particularly achy area, combining long flowing strokes,
rhythmic movements and yogic stretches for a marvelous muscle release.

The MANicure - Ideal for hard working hands. Nails are tidied
and cleaned for a well-groomed, spotless appearance.

Full Back Wax

Perfectly Groomed -
$188.00 ($235.00 value)

Bliss The Youth As
We Know It Pod Facial - Their
ultimate anti-aging treatment targeting tone, elasticity, volume, fine lines
and wrinkles - all the way to your décolleté. Includes a gentle but effective
peel, extractions and a high tech soothing mask. Also suits sensitive skin.

The MANicure - Ideal for hard working hands. Nails are tidied
and cleaned for a well-groomed, spotless appearance.

Bliss The Youth As
We Know It Facial - Their
ultimate anti-aging treatment targeting tone, elasticity, volume, fine lines
and wrinkles - all the way to your décolleté. Includes a gentle but effective
peel, extractions and a high tech soothing mask. Also suits sensitive skin.

Shellac Manicure - Like any quality polish application, the
Shellac system features a base coat, colour coat and top coat. Together with a
UV Lamp, they comprise the breakthrough in resilient colour that remains
flawless for two weeks, dries instantly and removes in 10 minutes.

Bliss Hot Almond
and Milk Pedicure - Milk
(or, specifically, lactic acid) does a pedi good in this hour-long
sole-spoiling treatment. Following an intensive dry-buffing, feet are softened
in steamed whole milk and mega-moisturising almond oil, then sublimely-scrubbed
and taken to the pinnacle of ‘pedicure’ with punctilious preening polishing.

All ‘Maid’ Up -
$96.00 ($120.00 value)

Shellac Manicure - Like any quality polish application, the
Shellac system features a base coat, colour coat and top coat. Together with a
UV Lamp, they comprise the breakthrough in resilient colour that remains
flawless for two weeks, dries instantly and removes in 10 minutes.

Spring Pedicure - Warm sugar scrub infused with exotic oils buff
away old, dull skin on the feet. Nails are shaped; cuticles cared for, and then
experience a taste of East massage and nail polish. Heels may be buffed if you
wish, as time allows.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Choosing supplements can be confusing – there are 1000′s
to choose from, so many brands, take once a day, twice a day, pill form, liquid
form, gel or powder form… all with different claims of how they can help our
bodies and brains function better, work faster and (fingers crossed) last us
that much longer. How do we know that what we are taking is going to help us
though - let alone be actually good for us?

At the moment people seem to be mad for anything “green”,
with almost every supplement company known to man offering a variation of
“green powder,” which is basically a powder made with dried grass, dried grass
juices or dried vegetables and occasionally, algae. Most of these powder are designed
to make your body more alkaline and give you nutrition you can't find elsewhere,
because despite our best intentions it’s often hard to stick to a flawless diet
every day of our lives, and it’s nice to know there is someone out there
watching our backs!

I found out about New Zealand made Good Green Stuff
from Julia Matthews of the blog juliaandlibby.com that she writes with her
sister, and thus far I am loving it. Behind it is local naturopath and author Cliff
Harvey, who formulated Good Green Stuff along with renowned Naturopath and
Nutritionist Kira Sutherland. They like to call it “nutritional insurance”, and
treat it as a green superfood that effectively replaces a
multi-vitamin/multi-mineral as it’s super blend of all your essential nutrients
in one place. Good Green Stuff comes in powder form and you
can mix it just with water (the blend of fruits combined with added
stevia, pineapple juice and vanilla mean it is pretty palatable), with milk or throw
it in a smoothie - my favourite option. One of the best things about Good Green
Stuff is that it is alkalising. When your body is more acidic, it is more
susceptible to disease and illness, and alkalising the body can help keep
things in check.

So... get your greens the easy way - you need this little baby in your life, so get to it! You can grab some here.

Monday, June 17, 2013

When you’re a product that hasn’t
been messed with in 45 years AND created by a company as scientifically backed
as Clinique, you know you’re doing something right and that it’s not complacency
that still has you looking and feeling exactly the same as you did all those
years ago. And when you’re universally loved by millions of women around the
globe, why fix what isn’t broken?

Well in the case of Clinique’s
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, it was just its time. And the “fix”
has been six and a half years in the planning, and completed with some serious
consideration in mind. The iconic lotion has been dermatologist-reformulated to
deliver even more dramatically different results, as in a 54 per cent
improvement in skin’s barrier strength in 8 weeks without changing the famously
silky texture.

Clinique scientists work closely
with Clinique’s guiding dermatologists Dr. David and Dr. Catherine Orentreich,
the son and daughter of the celebrated dermatologist Dr. Norman Orentreich who
worked with esteemed magazine editor, Carol Phillips and the Lauder family to
develop Clinique in 1968. Dr. David and Dr. Catherine run the Orentreich
Medical Group in the same Fifth Avenue offices that their father practiced, and
see patients of all ethnicities, skin concerns, skin types and ages from around
the world. “Patients were coming in more and more with manifestations they
described as redness, itching, burning, breakouts, dryness, dullness…in other
words; unhealthy skin. The dermatologists attribute these symptoms to one
thing: a weakened barrier,” says Pardo. Skin sensitivity can be the result of
everything from environmental aggressors to climate change and travel, as well
as lack of sleep, a poor diet and coping with the stresses of daily life.All of these culprits take a toll on
the skin.As a leader in treating
dermatological concerns, Clinique felt a responsibility to address the skin’s
barrier to counteract all of the above, as well as boost the moisture levels of
the iconic DDML.

The Barrier Strengthening Complex
in the new DDDM+ is a blend of sunflower seed cake, barley extract and cucumber
extract that helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier, imparting resilience and
resistance to environmental stresses. The new moisturising ingredients are Hyaluronic
Acid, Glycerin (a well known humectant that attracts moisture to skin) and Urea,
a naturally occurring component in the production of skin’s own natural
moisturizing factor (NMF). NMF ingredients mimic the function of healthy skin.

“You can have the best
moisturizer in the world but if your barrier is not intact - moisture
evaporates,” says Pardo. “The two actions, moisturizing and barrier repair go
hand in hand.”

So, for its fans, how does
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ feel in relation to the original?
From my few days trialing it - pretty much exactly the same, which is what you
want! Hydration levels are definitely up though, with the initial boost that
comes with application lasting well on into the eve. And last but not least -
the new formula is the same size at 125ml, but retails for just $69.00. Yep,
that’s a price decrease - unheard of!

So get your excited pants at the
ready - Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ will be landing August 2013
at Clinique counters nationwide.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

As a contact lens wearer, many mascara formulas that sound
amazing prove to be the bane of my life. They certainly curl/plump/lengthen and
pretty much everything bar doing the dishes, but this can come with flaking
which isn’t ideal when you’re dealing with lenses and trying to keep things as
sparkly and clean as possible.

So, when I was at a launch yesterday for Maybelline New
York’s latest and greatest for release in July, the product that really caught
my eye - quite literally - was the Volum’ Express Mega Plush Mascara, which is
a clever little wonder with a really rather reasonable RRP of $23.99.

Maybelline New York is famous for their mascara, and for the
innovation and thought that goes into each release. This new baby is the
world’s first gel-mousse mascara – great news for those that can’t tolerate the
flakes. With a unique formula that contains 40 per cent less wax, Mega Plush conjures
up maximum volume without the downside of dry and hard waxes - as in no brittle
or flaking lashes. It also has a flexible stem brush - their biggest yet - that
absorbs shock to caress lashes for massive volume, and I couldn’t wait to give
it a go.

Over 24 hours later I am officially in love with this little
tube of goodness, pretty much only taking it off to sleep! It is definitely a
new favourite and one that is highly recommended - come July get in there
and grab one fast!

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

I was already a huge fan of the Pureology range of shampoos and
conditioners when they launched their Colour Stylist styling collection, and fell
equally in love with it too. This autumn they are introducing two new
blonde-specific styling products to the mix, which is great news as I’ve just
had a bunch of cheeky highlights put back in!

Called the Highlight Stylist range (leading me to believe that it will
grow in number pretty soon), it is enriched with a lightweight texture and
highlight enhancers to create natural-looking hair with reflective shine and
long-lasting multi-tonal colour. It replaces lost lipids and protein to
strengthen and hydrate the hair follicle using the likes of porosity fillersolive, apricot, and jojoba oils to reduce
light and deliver shine and
natural food grade Red algae extract for lightweight touchable texture over the
entire hair surface without dulling, mattifying or weighing it down.

The first product is the Highlight Stylist Bodifying Luminator, which
is a lightweight foam texturiser that boosts body and shine from root to tip
without weighing down finer hair types. You just scrunch it into damp hair
before styling for some serious body and even more serious shine - too easy.

The second offering is the Sea-Kissed Texturiser, which is a
non-stripping, salt-free tousle spray that boosts shine as it strengthens the
hair fibre. It can be layered for as little or as much texture as desired
without any weight or stickiness. Simply spray on to wet or dry hair and style
as usual.

I have one set of the Pureology Highlight Stylist range to give away,
valued at more than $75.00. To enter just email your name
and courier delivery address to helene@mshelene.com
before 5pm next Wednesday, June 19 and you’re in the draw!

As I have raved about many a time, I’m a sucker for a
beautiful cleanser. I’m a huge fan of Antipodes’ offerings in particular, and
use their Butter cleanser almost religiously during the winter evenings when my
skin needs a ton of hydration and love.

So, I was VERY excited to hear news of their new addition to
the Antipodes cleansing range, and even more effervescent when a sample arrived
in the post!

Known as Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser, it is a core component
of the New Zealand-made, internationally adored brand’s Sensitive Skincare
Collection, which was created especially for those who suffer from sensitive or
sensitised skin conditions, due to genetic or environmental reasons.

The soft and delicious, fully organic cleanser utilises a
selection of New Zealand’s unique natural ingredients to do its job, such as
manuka flower and award-winning Waiwera artesian spring mineral water. Add to
that marigold flower, which acts as an anti-inflammatory and as an astringent, a
blend of nutrient-rich avocado oil and Vinanza Oxifend - a super-antioxidant
sourced from sun-drenched pinot noir grape seed kernels - and you have a
soothing treat for anyone with skin that needs a little extra TLC.

It is also a joy to use, with a creamy, luxurious texture
and no need to use loads to get a result - although feel free to, it’s that
good!

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Yesterday I was all about starting the day
right with a luscious shower blend… today I’m all about baths - long, warm,
deliciously fragranced ones! The reason is Weleda’s Refreshing Citrus Bath Milk,
which is a reason to keep soaking if ever there was one.

Reportedly “religiously used by Simon Cowell”
to unwind and refresh each day (don’t hold it against them!), this beautiful
formula is bursting with essential oils extracted from Biodynamic Lemons from
Sicily that give the milk its revitalising and enlivening citrusy fragrance.Lemon naturally regulates the skin's pH
balance, cools and stimulates the skin and has an astringent and cleansing
effect, so as well as smelling good this does lots more besides.

Weleda Refreshing Citrus Bath Milk can also
apparently be used as a refreshing pick-me-up at any time of the day by adding
a few drops onto a moistened face flannel and either dabbing or wiping it
gently over your face. I think this would be the perfect pick-me-up post-flight
in particular - and a bath is always top of my list when I check into a hotel,
no matter what time of day it is!

Weleda Citrus Refreshing Bath Milk has an RRP
of $29.50 for a 200ml bottle and is in store now.

Monday, June 10, 2013

When you choose to use Dr. Hauschka products you are given
the opportunity to go beyond beauty and depart on an aromatic journey - the
fragrances of their formulas are just that delicious and evocative.

The beautiful Body Moisturizer range that they launched last
year was the most perfect example of that, and the newly formulated Body Wash collection
that has just hit the stores takes that feeling one step further - and into the
shower!

Wake up each morning and choose to begin with one of the
following:

* Lavender Sandalwood Calming Body Wash - soothes and relaxes

* Rose Nurturing Body Wash - harmonises and nourishes

* Lemon Lemongrass Vitalising Body Wash - firms and refreshes

* Almond Soothing Body Wash - calms and balances

Creamy, soft and soap-free, they are ideal for fragrance
layering with Dr. Hauschka Body Moisturisers and/or Body Oils, and now come in
a sleek new 200ml bottle. All have an RRP of $29.00, which to me is a major
steal given their amazing qualities and credentials - they were created by Jörg
Zimmermann, perfumer for Dr. Hauschka Skin Care, and are independently
certified to NATRUE and/or BDIH standards.

At the moment I’m using Almond, which Zimmerman describes as
“delicate and floral”, and evocative of “the early days of spring, when the
radiant blue sky shimmers above a sea of delicate pink blossoms that appear to
dance in the mild air. The idea represented by the composition with almond is
the chiffon-like transparency of a pink rose.” He used bergamot, ylang-ylang
and rose to interpret this floral chord, whilst a balsamic base of tonka bean
and vanilla “sweeps us away to a sumptuous oriental palace and awakens memories
of sweet, pleasurable indulgences.” Totally divine, really… and the perfect way to start the day.

Friday, June 7, 2013

Nothing says warm winter nights in our house
better than a truly exceptional Pinot Noir, usually teamed with and equally
wonderful meal and a soft, cosy rug. It is my favourite wine variant by far,
and I’m super fussy about my favourite tipples so when a winner comes my way I
am fast a loyal fan.

The latest I’m getting excited about is Allan
Scott The Hounds Marlborough Pinot Noir 2011, which is a riot of rich Marlborough
dark cherry and raspberry notes with hints of wild herbs. In essence, the
perfect partner for elegant winter dining. An ideal match for rare beef or rich, gamey meats such as
wild venison or - a favourite round ours - indulgent blue cheese, it is what
you need to be pouring as the mercury drops with its bold, elegant flavours and
subtly oaky finish. I’m getting thirsty just writing about it!

Allan Scott The Hounds Marlborough Pinot Noir
2011 (RRP $31) and the full range of Allan Scott Wines are available from Glengarry
Wines and online at www.allanscott.com,
and - conveniently - I have three
bottles of this delicious little number to give away to lucky readers. Email me
helene@mshelene.com with your name and
delivery address and you’re in the draw. NB You have to be over 18 years of age
to enter… Now get to it!

Some of the most effective
facials I’ve had are courtesy of the team at Louise Gray Skin Care, where their
potion of choice is the legendary Dermalogica. It’s a brand that balances high
performance and utmost care for the skin effortlessly, and seeing what new
releases they come out with is always exciting.

The latest is UltraSmoothing Eye
Serum, which was developed for people who experience skin irritation and
puffiness around the eye area but still want an eye cream that packs a punch in
the anti-ageing fight. It has been formulated to ease fine lines and wrinkles,
dehydration, and general loss of vitality and elasticity in the skin, and
utilise’s the brand’s exclusive UltraCalming Complex consisting of Oat
extracts, bisabolol, ginger extract and Red Hogweed to target the symptoms of
inflammation. This works over time to help reduce and prevent future
sensitization, redness and irritation.

The serum also combats eye
puffiness with its botanical extracts, specifically using two sulfated
polysaccharides from Harpoon Weed (Asparagopsis) and Norwegian kelp
(Ascophyllum), algae native to Ouessant Island off the Brittany coast of
France. These botanicals are combined in the formula with Golden Chamomile
(Chrysanthellum indica). In combination, these plant actives help increase the
mechanical resistance of the capillaries, preventing leakage of fluids through
the capillary walls that can cause puffiness. Clever stuff, and an absolute
godsend for many of us in the morning.

Last but not least, there are a
boatload of powerful anti-ageing ingredients in there including Magnesium
Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), a water-soluble form of Vitamin C, which is effective
in low concentrations and is stable at a neutral pH. Unlike similar compounds that
require a high and potentially irritating level of acidity to be effective, its
neutral pH prevents further stinging, redness and sensitization around the eye
area. The age fighting and soothing combination of actives are suspended in an Aloe
Barbadensis leaf juice that helps soothe skin and cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid
for moisture retention and free-radical scavenging; Carrot Root oil with added
proVitamin A, completes the formula to help regenerate dry, stressed skin.

But okay, enough with the
science. It’s a beautiful formula to use and everything points to it being a
pretty magical product for many of us out there that battle with seasonal
allergies and that getting older thing. UltraSmoothing Eye Serum will be
available wherever Dermalogica is sold and online from 1st of July 2013 with an
RRP of $92.00.

By Helene Ravlich

About the author:

Helene Ravlich is a freelance writer based in Auckland, New Zealand. A self-confessed beauty fanatic with over fifteen years in the business of writing about all things pretty and beautiful, she has a passion for organic formulations and high performance skincare and is constantly on the search for THE perfect red lipstick. Mum to eight year old whirlwind Wolf, she has written for magazines, websites and newspapers in New Zealand and internationally and loves music, dogs and a good red wine.

Copyright Notice:

The work on PB is copyright. Apart from use permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process, nor may any other exclusive right be exercised without the permission of Helene Ravlich, 2009.

Disclaimer:

Pretty Beautiful claims no credit for the images or magazine content featured on the blog and operates on the understanding that if we receive any complaints about the use of content or images they will be removed. To request the removal of content or images please email helene@mshelene.com